Thank you for being willing to share your personal mental health journey. Your story has the power to help others feel less alone and to break down stigma around mental health. Below are simple instructions to create an authentic, impactful reel.
Questions to Address
Choose one or more of these questions to answer in your reel:
Who are you and what is your connection to NAMI? How has NAMI played a role in your life or mental health journey?
What is your cultural background? How is mental health approached in your community?
What does mental health mean to you personally? How do you define it in your own words?
How did you first begin your mental health journey? What was that initial step or realization like for you?
What does healing mean to you, and how has your understanding of healing evolved over time?
Bonus Question: If you could go back and speak to yourself at the beginning of your mental health journey, what would you say?
UPLOAD VIDEO, HERE.
Recording Tips
Before Recording
Find a quiet space with good lighting where you won't be interrupted
Choose a simple background that isn't distracting (a plain wall or minimal setting works well)
Test your audio to make sure your voice is clear and background noise is minimal
Take a moment to gather your thoughts before hitting record
Remember: Authenticity matters more than perfection
During Recording
Speak naturally as if you're talking to a friend
Keep your reel between 30-90 seconds per question
Please start with the introduction question, and then move to your chosen topic
You can answer just one question or combine multiple questions in a single reel
Focus on your personal experience rather than giving general advice
It's okay to be emotional – vulnerability creates connection
You can pause or record multiple takes until you feel comfortable
Content Guidance
Be authentic – your genuine story is powerful
Share your perspective but avoid speaking for everyone in your community
Focus on your journey rather than critiquing others
Include moments of hope or learning where possible
You control what you share – only discuss what you're comfortable revealing
Technical Instructions
Recording Settings
Film in vertical orientation (9:16 ratio)
Use the highest quality setting available on your device
If possible, use a tripod or stable surface to avoid shaky footage
Use natural, even lighting when possible – sit facing a window with soft, diffused light rather than direct sunlight. Avoid harsh shadows on your face
Record in a location with minimal echo
Submission
Review your recording before submitting
No editing is required – we'll handle that for you
Submit your raw video file(s) HERE.
Final Reminders
There are no wrong answers – this is your unique story
You're helping create a more inclusive conversation around mental health
Your participation helps others see themselves represented in mental health discussions
You can request to review the final edit before it's published
Thank you for your courage in sharing your mental health journey. Your voice matters and will help others feel seen and understood.
If at any point sharing becomes too difficult or uncomfortable, it's completely okay to stop and take care of yourself first.
UPLOAD VIDEO, HERE.